Just got my first modern muzzleloader and wondering what loads others are using. According to the book, the rifle can be loaded with up to 150gr of powder and gives no consideration to bullet weight. I see no way that 2x the charge of an even slower burning powder than what I load in 300wm could come near burning in time. I am not interested in pellets or bp substitutes. For projectiles I am starting with 350gr Hornady FPB. Does anyone here have any experience with a good charge of loose powder and 350gr bullet out of a 26"bbl?

I take it you are using pure black powder then? I use it for flintlocks but Black Horn powder is best for in-line rifles. start at 90 grains (volume) and work up a bit from their noting the rifle's preference at a certain powder charge. Pick the best grouping/load from there.

Yes I use real bp. Just "keepin it real" as the kids put it since I have several replica rifles and handguns; I keep several pounds of bp on hand. 90gr sounds reasonable. I shoot 82 out of rifles with longer bbls but they don't have as good of an ignition source. Thanks.

I shoot Goex (spell?) 2f and 3f in my flintlocks because I do like tradition when using them, however, when using an in-line rifle there's no tradition with me so I'm looking for performance only which is what Black Horn powder and quality bullets gives. Just some random thoughts.

Good thoughts. I have always laughed at guys who in my opinion stretched the law by using modern bullets, powders, scopes, and primers in "primitive hunting" I do not have any original rifles or handguns but at least they are all replicas. Poor eyesight and hang fires (which cost me several deer over the last few years) caused me to complain about my replica rifles too much I guess. This rifle was an unexpected birthday gift and I guess I have not had time to realize I am now one of the guys I have laughed at. I will get myself some modern powder to go with my modern rifle that loads backwards lol. Thanks

I've got an Optima here at the house that was a gift. Don't have much use for the in-lines so it's a loaner. Sighted it in with 80 grs. of 2f Goex and the Lightfield Alpha Gold 300's. That combo has dropped a pile of deer. ;)

Have you fella's that use loose powder, changed your breech plug to a larger hole plug or are you still using the factory breech plug ? Heard with BH 209 powder you should go to a larger fire hole. Thanks, mike